Perseverance
Shepard demonstrates that it is possible to improve one's circumstances by working hard toward a goal. He aligns his actions with his goal of getting out of poverty, which includes living in a homeless shelter, working for less than minimum wage, and eventually working his way up in a moving company. Therefore, he is willing to face and overcome challenges, which leads to the reward of having a car, a furnished apartment, and $2,500 in the bank after a few months. At the same time, he witnesses many drug and alcohol addicts who seem to have lost focus and are not willing to put in enough effort to rehabilitate, an attitude which he also finds on a smaller scale in society as a whole.
Openness
Throughout his journey, Shepard continually talks to a variety of people. He listens without judging them, thus getting critical advice from Phil, who many at the homeless shelter consider a crazy person. After all, people are more than willing to share their knowledge and opinions, as seen in the countless conversations and arguments at the shelter, where the inhabitants usually put in "more than their two cents." In order to advance in life, it is therefore important to keep eyes and ears open.
Appreciation
After riding the bus for a few months, Shepard writes an appreciation letter to the bus driver, who made a positive impact on him and the other people on the bus with his positive and cheerful attitude. Similarly, he states that there are many other blue-collar workers who should be appreciated more because they love what they do and put their heart and soul into their work--and because society would not work without them. For example, Sarge selflessly dedicates his time to the welfare of the homeless people at the shelter. Moreover, when Shepard works for the moving company he enjoys being appreciated by his customers, which motivates him to perform even better.
